Day, Alfred

1810-1849

Born in London. Was the author of an important theory of harmony in which he advocated many alterations. He also formulated a new sort of bass-figuring to supplant the ordinary thorough-bass, making many practical suggestions, which have been of the greatest value to musicians. He studied medicine, in accordance with his father's wishes, in London and Paris, and after taking a degree at Heidelberg, he practiced in London as a homeopathist, devoting his spare time to music. His work on harmony was finished and published in 1845, only three years before his death.